President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone has stated unequivocally that he will not be running for reelection to a third term of office or for a seven-year term. Bio made this claim during his speech before the Special Presidential DEPAC Meeting, which was called to review the 1991 constitution of Sierra Leone.
“I am not seeking a seven-year term, nor am I considering running for a third term. As I have consistently emphasized, upon leaving my presidency, my aim is to establish laws that will strengthen the democratic future of our nation,” Bio stated unequivocally.
President Bio emphasized in his speech the historical significance of the ongoing Constitutional Review Process, which has been a collaborative effort for almost 20 years. He stressed that this process is a transformative journey that aims to reshape Sierra Leone’s future, not just a change of legal material.
In order to keep the Constitution a living, breathing representation of the country’s ideals and goals, the President emphasized the significance of maintaining inclusivity and sensitivity to the changing requirements of society.
President Bio, taking stock of Sierra Leone’s journey since the current Constitution was adopted, emphasized the need for a thorough review while recognizing that no document is perfect and that social demands change with time.
During his 2018 presidential campaign, President Bio reaffirmed his unshakable commitment to completing the Constitutional Review Process. He outlined the history of this process, which began with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC) recommendations after the Civil War, and he reaffirmed the commitment of his administration to carrying out this task.